Beginning tonight and into the early hours of Friday, March 14, skywatchers across North and South America will have the chance to witness a breathtaking celestial event: a total lunar eclipse known as a “Blood Moon.”
This marks the first total lunar eclipse visible across the Americas since 2022, captivating stargazers with its striking red hue caused by sunlight filtering through Earth’s atmosphere.
According to reports from the Associated Press, the eclipse will begin late Thursday night, with the moon fully immersed in Earth’s shadow—known as totality—lasting for over an hour.
The peak of the event is expected around 3 a.m. Eastern Time on Friday, when the moon will take on its deepest coppery-red color.
The news outlet noted that this “Blood Moon” will be visible across the Western Hemisphere, offering a rare treat for those willing to stay up late or rise early.
CNN has also highlighted the significance of this eclipse, emphasizing its accessibility. Unlike solar eclipses, which require special protective eyewear, this lunar event can be enjoyed with the naked eye.
Weather permitting, the spectacle will be observable not only in the Americas but also in parts of western Europe, Africa, and New Zealand, broadening its global appeal.
The New York Times echoed this excitement, describing the “Blood Moon” as a moment when Earth’s shadow totally blocks direct sunlight from reaching the moon, casting it in a reddish glow.
The outlet pointed out that the last total lunar eclipse visible in the Americas occurred in May 2022, making this a long-awaited return for astronomy enthusiasts.
The Times also noted that the duration of totality—over an hour—provides ample time for observation and photography.
Reuters added a broader perspective, reporting that lunar eclipses like this one are relatively rare due to the precise alignment required between the sun, Earth, and moon.
The reddish tint, often dubbed a “Blood Moon,” results from sunlight scattering through Earth’s atmosphere, a phenomenon that has fascinated cultures for centuries.
This event, Reuters stated, is expected to draw significant attention across the continents.
Meanwhile, Bloomberg underscored the cultural and scientific interest surrounding the eclipse.
For many, it’s not just an astronomical event but a moment of wonder that connects people across borders.
Scientists, too, will be watching, using the opportunity to study the moon’s surface and Earth’s atmospheric conditions.
